Hollywood Gives Initial Approval To Fire-rescue Fee

June 6, 1996|By DAVID CAZARES Staff Writer

HOLLYWOOD - — Taxpayers may soon have to ante up to ensure the city's fire-rescue personnel can respond when they're needed.

On Wednesday, the City Commission gave preliminary approval to a law that would assess taxpayers a fee to help pay for emergency medical services. The fee, which would be in addition to regular property taxes, could get final approval on June 19.

If adopted, the fee would be on tax bills this fall.

City officials say the fee would generate about $5 million a year. It's needed to offset $1.8 million in revenue lost when Broward County decided to stop providing rebates to cities that operate their own fire-rescue services.

"We need that money to be able to provide the same level of service that we have been providing and also to enhance that service," City Manager Sam Finz said. "This special assessment allows us to do that."

City staffers estimate that homeowners would pay $74 annually if the fee is approved, but could recoup $50 or more if Broward County reduces taxes to compensate for the fee, Finz said.

Commission critic Pete Brewer said the commissioners are fooling themselves if they think the county is going to cut residents' taxes.

"I don't believe it's going to happen," Brewer said."

Homeowners would pay most of the fire-rescue fees because 72 percent of fire-rescue calls go to homes. Apartment owners would also have to pay, and businesses would be assessed per square foot of space.

Residents urged the commissioners to make sure the fee is reasonable.

"I agree with the concept that everyone should pay their fair share," said Bernice Oster. "I think it's about time. However, I think the fair share is a little bit too high. Perhaps you can come down to a rate that is a little more affordable for everyone."